Brown Hotel Kentucky Hot Brown

Try different cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.

Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for a little extra flavor in the sauce.

Using leftover roasted turkey makes this recipe come together even faster.

Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as a garnish before serving.

If you're preparing for a crowd, you can assemble multiple sandwiches on a large baking sheet for an easy serving option.

Consider broiling the Hot Brown for a couple of minutes at the end to get a beautifully browned top.

Make sure the sauce is thick enough before adding to the sandwich to prevent sogginess.

Using toasted bread will help withstand the sauce without becoming too mushy.

What is a Hot Brown sandwich?

A Hot Brown sandwich is an open-faced turkey sandwich that originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. It typically consists of sliced turkey breast served on toast, smothered in a rich Mornay sauce, and topped with bacon, tomatoes, and sometimes additional cheese.

What is Mornay sauce?

Mornay sauce is a creamy cheese sauce made from a bechamel base (butter, flour, and milk) with the addition of grated cheese, usually Gruyere or Swiss. It's rich and velvety, making it an excellent topping for dishes like the Hot Brown.

Can I substitute the white bread with a different type?

While traditional Hot Browns use white bread, you can use other types of bread such as whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free options. Each type will give a different texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for turkey breast?

If you don't have turkey, you can use rotisserie chicken, smoked chicken, or even ham.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time. Make the Mornay sauce and store it in the refrigerator, slice the turkey and bacon, and toast the bread. Assemble and bake just before serving.

What if I don't have cream?

If you don't have cream, you can use whole milk or half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a lighter version, you could use a mixture of milk with a little cornstarch to thicken it.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the components separate if possible, to maintain texture.

Can the Hot Brown be reheated?

You can reheat it in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through, or you can use a microwave, but the oven will keep the bread from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze a Hot Brown sandwich?

While it's not recommended to freeze a fully assembled Hot Brown (as bread can become soggy once thawed), you can freeze the Mornay sauce and turkey separately and assemble when ready to serve.

What is the purpose of using white pepper instead of black pepper?

White pepper is used to maintain the sauce's creamy color and not to alter its appearance. It also has a milder flavor than black pepper, which can be beneficial in creamy dishes. You can use black pepper instead if you wish.

What are some common variations of the Hot Brown?

Some variations may include adding sauteed mushrooms, different cheeses, or additional vegetables. People sometimes replace the turkey with shrimp or crab to create a seafood version.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the Mornay sauce, you can add more cheese or let it cook longer to reduce further. Using a higher ratio of flour to butter can also help create a thicker consistency.

Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan for melting the butter and combining the flour, cream, and milk to create the Mornay sauce.

Whisk: A whisk for smoothly combining the butter and flour, as well as for mixing the cream and milk into the sauce without lumps.

Measuring Cups: Used for measuring the cream, milk, and other ingredients. Note that the flour is weighed in this recipe as is with many restaurant recipes. 3 ounces of flour is approximately 2/3 cup if you do not have a scale.

Oven-Safe Dish: An oven-safe dish is needed to assemble and bake the sandwich.

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife for slicing the toasted bread and possibly for cutting the turkey and tomatoes.

Spatula: A spatula can be helpful for spreading the Mornay sauce over the sandwich ingredients.

Roasted Asparagus: Add some roasted asparagus on the side for a vibrant contrast. Its earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the Hot Brown, and the bright green color adds a nice visual boost.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Serve crispy Brussels sprouts to bring a bitter note that balances the rich, cheesy sauce.

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad presents a refreshing, zesty complement to the hot sandwich.

Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy coleslaw offers a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy sandwich.

Baked Sweet Potatoes: Pair the Hot Brown with baked sweet potatoes for a cozy, comforting combination. Their natural sweetness complements the savory turkey and bacon while adding a touch of earthy flavor.

Garlic Bread: A loaf of warm, garlic bread can serve as the perfect vessel for scooping up any leftover mornay sauce.

Wedge Salad: A classic wedge salad topped with blue cheese dressing fits nicely alongside the Hot Brown.

Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A buttery, oaked Chardonnay will meld beautifully with the creamy mornay sauce. Look for one that's rich and round, with hints of vanilla and a bit of minerality to keep it fresh.

Sauvignon Blanc: This zesty white wine, loaded with citrus and green apple flavors, will brighten up the richness of the sauce and balance the savory turkey and bacon.

Pinot Grigio: A light, crisp Pinot Grigio will keep things refreshing while cutting through the creaminess. Seek one with nice acidity and maybe a fruity zing.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Pilsner: A clean, crisp Pilsner is like a refreshing splash of cold water after a long day. It won't overshadow the Hot Brown and will help cleanse your taste buds with its light hop bitterness.

Ginger Beer: This fizzy, slightly spicy non-alcoholic option brings a fun kick that can offset the richness of the mornay and bacon.

Bourbon: A sweet bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes will warm you up alongside this hearty sandwich. Sip it slowly.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Lemonade: A refreshing, slightly tart lemonade can offer a bright contrast to the richness of the dish. Opt for one that's not too sweet.

Sparkling Water: A bubbly sparkling water can cleanse your palate between bites. It's like the friendly reminder that you're still hydrated while indulging in something delicious.

Herbal Iced Tea: Brew up some herbal iced tea, maybe mint or chamomile, for a refreshing companion.